FOLK-BLUEGRASS duo Wicker Suite took to the stage at the historic Coramba Community Hall on Sunday, 8 March, providing locals an unforgettable afternoon of music and stories.
The duo, consisting of Australian fiddler and vocalist Gabi Louise and New Zealand singer-songwriter and guitarist Liam Kennedy-Clark, are three-time CMAA Golden Guitar Award winners – most recently taking out Instrumental of the Year for their composition “Lyrebird”.
Over the years the pair have built a reputation as one of Australia’s most exciting country-roots acts.
Wicker Suite are currently on their “The Way That It Was” tour, bringing a mix of original music and personal storytelling to the Orara Valley on Sunday.
“Coramba Hall was absolutely beautiful,” Gabi and Liam said.
“It sounded amazing and felt great to perform in.
“We’ve played lots of halls across Australia, and each has its own charm, but Coramba really stood out.”
The Coramba Hall, built in 1914, has been a central community gathering place for over a century.
Recent refurbishments, including a new kitchen, modern toilets, and performance lighting, make it an ideal venue for smaller acts wanting an intimate vibe.
Gabi and Liam explained that performing in small community halls is about more than just the music.
“It’s the history and the people,” they said.
“The committees and communities that maintain these halls are the heart and soul of these towns.
“We love learning when the hall was built, what events it hosted, and the stories it holds.”
With stops left in Victoria and New Zealand before focusing on a new album, Wicker Suite hopes to continue performing in halls like Coramba, keeping community music alive.
“Our dream is to see these venues thrive again, bringing people together like they always have,” they said.
Supported by Arts Mid North Coast, Coramba Hall continues to be a hub for culture, music, and community..
By Kate PYE
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